Artichoke West Soft Opens, Further Expansion This Fall

Artichoke Basille's Pizza, the Meatpacking District restaurant branch of the uber popular East Village slice joint, soft opened for business this past weekend, about one week after the sister slice shop opened. Eater popped in last night to survey the scene and found the restaurant semi-filled with customers enjoying table friendly (14") versions of Artichoke's popular pies. In addition to the Artichoke, Clam and Sicilian, the menu also includes a killer burnt anchovy pizza, and non pizza items like stuffed artichoke, artichoke fritters and meatballs. The beer and wine license hasn't arrived yet, so beverage choices are limited to soda and water for the time being.

With the restaurant and neighboring slice shop open, a tipster confirms earlier reports that Artichoke was scouring the Central Village for a third location, telling Eater that the Artichoke team has signed a lease for a space on MacDougal Street adjacent to Minetta Tavern and will be competing for with legendary Village slice shops for the hearts and money of NYU students. The space is under construction now and is targeting a mid fall opening.
· Artichoke Coverage [~ENY~]